A FIELD investigation for oleoresin tapping activity in Bakun, Benguet has been set by the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples Cordillera (NCIP-CAR).

Engineer Allan Allatis, NCIP-CAR field based investigation team leader, informed the Provincial Board of Benguet of a proposed oleoresin tapping project in Barangay Ampusongan.

The field investigation slated on February 19 and 20 is “intended to determine the extent of coverage of the proposed project and determine the affected Indigenous Peoples,” the letter reads.

A conduct of Free Prior Informed Consent (FPIC) process is needed before the issuance of a certificate of approval or withheld the community’s approval.

Sario Copas, indigenous peoples mandatory representative, hopes the tappers of the proposed project to be guided by a recent ordinance in the province regulating oleoresin activity.

To recall, the Provincial Board on August 29, 2018 approved an ordinance regulating the extraction of pine tree oleoresin in the whole province.

Oleoresin tapping is the extraction of resin, a sticky liquid and organic substance locally known as “nicket” or “ole.”

The resin is used as a raw material for manufacturing cosmetics such as nail polish, and products such as paint, varnish, ink, and spoon.

“The conduct of pine tree oleoresin tapping as a socio economic activity by individual landowners of Benguet. Any local government unit (LGU) or by any judicial entry must be regulated so that tapping activity will be sustainable and not pose danger to pine trees or avoid risks that may cause to Benguet Pine Trees,” Copas added.